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The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World Hardcover – September 20, 2016

4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 14,995 ratings

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An instant New York Times bestseller. Over 1 million copies sold!

Two spiritual giants. Five days. One timeless question.


Nobel Peace Prize Laureates His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu have survived more than fifty years of exile and the soul-crushing violence of oppression. Despite their hardships—or, as they would say, because of them—they are two of the most joyful people on the planet.

In April 2015, Archbishop Tutu traveled to the Dalai Lama's home in Dharamsala, India, to celebrate His Holiness's eightieth birthday and to create what they hoped would be a gift for others. They looked back on their long lives to answer a single burning question: How do we find joy in the face of life's inevitable suffering?

They traded intimate stories, teased each other continually, and shared their spiritual practices. By the end of a week filled with laughter and punctuated with tears, these two global heroes had stared into the abyss and despair of our time and revealed how to live a life brimming with joy.

This book offers us a rare opportunity to experience their astonishing and unprecedented week together, from the first embrace to the final good-bye.

We get to listen as they explore the Nature of True Joy and confront each of the Obstacles of Joy—from fear, stress, and anger to grief, illness, and death. They then offer us the Eight Pillars of Joy, which provide the foundation for lasting happiness. Throughout, they include stories, wisdom, and science. Finally, they share their daily Joy Practices that anchor their own emotional and spiritual lives.

The Archbishop has never claimed sainthood, and the Dalai Lama considers himself a simple monk. In this unique collaboration, they offer us the reflection of real lives filled with pain and turmoil in the midst of which they have been able to discover a level of peace, of courage, and of joy to which we can all aspire in our own lives.
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Popular Highlights in this book

From the Publisher

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Editorial Reviews

Review

Winner of the 2016 Books for a Better Life Award in Spirituality

“The question may be timeless, but their answer has urgent significance.”
—Time Magazine

"[An] exquisite book...An intimate glimpse into the minds of two of the world's spiritual guides, and their foundation for an attainable and practical approach to experiencing a more enriching and sustainable life of abundant joy."
—Shelf Awareness

"This sparkling, wise, and immediately useful gift to readers from two remarkable spiritual masters offers hope that joy is possible for everyone even in the most difficult circumstances, and describes a clear path for attaining it."
Publishers Weekly

"The world needs joy and compassion more than ever before – and who better than Archbishop Tutu and the Dalai Lama to show us how it is done. This beautiful book takes us on the journey of their friendship and gives us the gift of their wisdom. A bright spot of hope and love in this world."
—Sir Richard Branson

"It's a book that transports you deep within the intimate friendship that binds these two incredible souls. And it’s a book that vividly probes the very nature of joy itself — the illusions that eclipse it, the obstacles that obscure it, the practices that cultivate it, and the pillars that sustain it."
—Rich Roll, The Rich Roll Podcast 

About the Author

His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, describes himself as a simple Buddhist monk. He is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan People and of Tibetan Buddhism. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 and the US Congressional Gold Medal in 2007. Born in 1935 to a poor farming family in northeastern Tibet he was recognized at the age of two as the reincarnation of his predecessor, the 13th Dalai Lama. He has been a passionate advocate for a secular universal approach to cultivating fundamental human values. For over three decades the Dalai Lama has maintained an ongoing conversation and collaboration with scientists from a wide range of disciplines, especially through the Mind and Life Institute, an organization that he co-founded. The Dalai Lama travels extensively, promoting kindness and compassion, interfaith understanding, respect for the environment, and, above all, world peace. He lives in exile in Dharamsala, India. For more information, please visit www.dalailama.com.

Desmond Mpilo Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Southern Africa, became a prominent leader in the crusade for justice and racial reconciliation in South Africa. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. In 1994, Tutu was appointed chair of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission by Nelson Mandela, where he pioneered a new way for countries to move forward after experiencing civil conflict and oppression. He was the founding chair of The Elders, a group of global leaders working together for peace and human rights. Archbishop Tutu is regarded as a leading moral voice and an icon of hope. Throughout his life, he has cared deeply about the needs of people around the world, teaching love and compassion for all. For more information please visit tutu.org.za.

Douglas Abrams is an author, editor, and literary agent. He is the founder and president of Idea Architects, a creative book and media agency helping visionaries to create a wiser, healthier, and more just world. Doug has worked with Desmond Tutu as his cowriter and editor for over a decade, and before founding his own literary agency, he was a senior editor at HarperCollins and also served for nine years as the religion editor at the University of California Press. He believes strongly in the power of books and media to catalyze the next stage of global evolutionary culture. He lives in Santa Cruz, California. For more information, please visit ideaarchitects.com and humanjourney.com.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ 0399185046
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Avery; Later prt. edition (September 20, 2016)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 384 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9780399185045
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0399185045
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.75 x 1.18 x 8.54 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 14,995 ratings

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4.7 out of 5 stars
14,995 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book easy to read and enjoyable. They find the content inspiring and thought-provoking, with a warm friendship between two wise men. The book provides simple concepts that are easy to understand and apply. Readers appreciate the compassion and generosity of spirit shown by the authors. Overall, the story is described as wonderful and beautiful.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

949 customers mention "Readability"919 positive30 negative

Customers find the book enjoyable and easy to read. They appreciate the insightful advice and dialogue that make them feel as if they are there. Readers mention it's a joy to read, beautifully written, and easy to understand.

"The Book of Joy exceeded all my expectations! Written as a beautiful conversation between His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu,..." Read more

"What a wonderful read. Such profound examples of grace, mercy, and kindness. Reminders that we are all connected. We all have darkness and light...." Read more

"...It’s great. Very interesting, relaxing to read. Not a preaching/evangelism type read, but spiritual and satisfying." Read more

"...It’s a short, but delightful book and I hope you get to read it." Read more

710 customers mention "Inspirational content"706 positive4 negative

Customers find the book inspiring and thought-provoking. They say it speaks to their spirit and soul, with a positive message about joy. The book provides profound examples of grace, mercy, and kindness. It offers a work of compassion and commitment that opens their eyes to new possibilities in life.

"...The authors tackle some of life's biggest challenges, offering actionable insights on how to find joy amidst hardship, loss, and uncertainty...." Read more

"What a wonderful read. Such profound examples of grace, mercy, and kindness. Reminders that we are all connected. We all have darkness and light...." Read more

"...It’s great. Very interesting, relaxing to read. Not a preaching/evangelism type read, but spiritual and satisfying." Read more

"...We do. Each day and each moment, we are able to create and re-create our lives and the very quality of human life on our planet...." Read more

256 customers mention "Joy"247 positive9 negative

Customers appreciate the book's joyful tone. They find the discussion of joy uplifting and entertaining, with laughter and tears. The authors' playful sparring and banter between themselves are also appreciated. Overall, readers say the book chases away depressive thinking.

"...are engaging, and the tone is warm and conversational, often infused with humor (I caught myself smiling multiple times)...." Read more

"...It’s great. Very interesting, relaxing to read. Not a preaching/evangelism type read, but spiritual and satisfying." Read more

"...The reading lifted my heart and made me wonder and laugh." Read more

"...You see, hear, and feel tears and hugs, joking and teasing, prayer and meditation, and deep insights into life’s most perplexing issues...." Read more

104 customers mention "Conversation quality"104 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the conversations between Archbishop Tutu and the Dalai Lama. They find the friendship remarkable, with deep mutual affection and respect. The book is described as a warm meeting of two wise men. Readers appreciate the candor and depth of sharing between the two great men.

"...their agreements, their disagreements, and their obvious love and respect for each other...." Read more

"...experienced great suffering over the years, and they are the best of friends. The kind where respect is profound...." Read more

"...2 major leaders were difficult to understand, but the joy of their friendship was evident." Read more

"...The coauthor, Douglas Abrams, does a brilliant job of weaving together their conversations, asking probing questions and guiding the reader with..." Read more

66 customers mention "Simplicity"66 positive0 negative

Customers find the book's teachings simple and joyful. They appreciate the practical guidelines and explanation of practices that are helpful. The book provides a good introduction to human living, filled with humor, insights, guidance, and a depth of humanity. It is easy for them to understand and enjoy.

"...They're profound yet simple prescription for how one achieves happiness in life and maintains joy despite the tragedies we face is uplifting and..." Read more

"...Douglas Carlton Abrams does an excellent job of drawing together the different elements of this weeklong meeting of the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu...." Read more

"This book is a joy to read. It is filled with humor, insights, guidance and a depth of humanity that is a privilege to encounter...." Read more

"...an easy book to read and the philosophy of the to gentlemen is easy to understand" Read more

52 customers mention "Compassion"52 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's compassion. They find it humbling and enlightening, showing respect for different beliefs. The book helps readers gain insights about suffering, joy, and compassion. It brings smiles of joy and appreciation, with profound examples of grace, mercy, and kindness. Readers say the book provides a break from negative feelings and without religion, solemnity, or pomposity.

"...I loved the emphasis on gratitude, forgiveness, and connection, which resonated deeply with me...." Read more

"What a wonderful read. Such profound examples of grace, mercy, and kindness. Reminders that we are all connected. We all have darkness and light...." Read more

"...of each other, each free to laugh at his own expense, their generosity of spirit, their temperate complaints about everything from the infirmities..." Read more

"...government and restrictions - support their beliefs of generosity, compassion, happiness and joy...." Read more

52 customers mention "Story quality"52 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the stories. They find the stories interesting, inspiring, and relatable to everyday life events like meetings and journeys.

"...The chapters are engaging, and the tone is warm and conversational, often infused with humor (I caught myself smiling multiple times)...." Read more

"...It’s great. Very interesting, relaxing to read. Not a preaching/evangelism type read, but spiritual and satisfying." Read more

"...Helps to look at the humorous side of things; relates to every day, real events that are common to a human being." Read more

"...I love their stories, individually, and their journey, together, in friendship. This book inspires! A great read for you or gift for loved ones." Read more

27 customers mention "Gift value"27 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book as a gift. They say it makes a great gift for philosophers and appreciate the wisdom and goodwill from these two men.

"...This book inspires! A great read for you or gift for loved ones." Read more

"...The title says it all! Would make a great gift 🎁..." Read more

"This book is the perfect gift, especially to yourself. The Dalai Lama and Bishop TUTU have an amazing, loving relationship...." Read more

"...You can't. This book is a gift, and will probably have creased pages when I give it. I can't put it down...." Read more

A book to cherish for years.
5 out of 5 stars
A book to cherish for years.
I don't know why I didn't read this when it first came out, as I respect both of these men.It is one of the most influential books I've read, and it simply brings you joy as you move through the pages. The stories they share of the challenges they've faced in their lives and yet still find space for joy are breathtaking. The book now lives within my heart, and I will carry it forever.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on December 26, 2024
    The Book of Joy exceeded all my expectations! Written as a beautiful conversation between His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, this book feels like sitting down with two wise friends who generously share their wisdom, humor, and compassion.

    The authors tackle some of life's biggest challenges, offering actionable insights on how to find joy amidst hardship, loss, and uncertainty. I particularly appreciated the balance between personal anecdotes, spiritual reflections, and scientific studies. The blend makes the book accessible to anyone, regardless of background or beliefs.

    The chapters are engaging, and the tone is warm and conversational, often infused with humor (I caught myself smiling multiple times). I loved the emphasis on gratitude, forgiveness, and connection, which resonated deeply with me.

    If you're looking for a book to inspire, comfort, and remind you of the resilience of the human spirit, this is it. I already know I’ll be revisiting it often! Highly recommend for anyone on a journey to cultivate lasting happiness.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on November 5, 2024
    What a wonderful read. Such profound examples of grace, mercy, and kindness. Reminders that we are all connected. We all have darkness and light. To live with compassion can change the world. We must start within ourselves.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 22, 2024
    I watched the documentary that goes along with the book and so purchased this. It’s great. Very interesting, relaxing to read. Not a preaching/evangelism type read, but spiritual and satisfying.
    2 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on July 21, 2023
    Favorite Quote: No dark fate determines the future. We do. Each day and each moment, we are able to create and re-create our lives and the very quality of human life on our planet. This is the power we wield.

    Synopsis: The Book of Joy covers a week-long summit between His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. First published in 2016, the ability to get these two leaders together was unpredictable until the moment they actually met. Given the Archbishop’s health condition at the time and the potential visa issues with the Dalai Lama (and his age), this meeting was recorded for posterity. The wisdom of these two renowned men fills the pages. Not only do they discuss joy, but also how to find joy no matter the circumstances, how to flip negative experiences to less negative ones, and how to build compassion and empathy into your daily life.

    Why does this book beguile? I was skeptical going when beginning The Book of Joy because I didn’t want to read some topical nonsense about being happier. I was intrigued by the friendship and differences between these men. I was pleasantly surprised by how easily the book flowed and you can really appreciate the special bond these two men have. It’s a short, but delightful book and I hope you get to read it.
    8 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on September 30, 2017
    My brother commended this book to me with a an irresistible endorsement: "It's like listening to two old geezers swap stories, pondering, laughing, and jostling each other." In tone, that pretty much captures the book's spirit. The title and subtitle of this book—while sure to sell more copies, which is a very good thing—is a bit misleading. It sounds like one of a thousand self-help books, crystallized in the mid-twentieth century with Dale Carnegie and Norman Vincent Peale, perpetuated in our day by every 60-second celebrity with a cable-channel program. "The Book of Joy" is really a book about the joy of two venerable (and venerated), elderly gentlemen in each other's company. Both just happen to be international leaders of two different religious traditions, who have endured unimaginable ugliness and tragedy across their long lives, who have come out at the other end at peace with themselves and with others, and who just happened to have received, among hundreds of other accolades, the Nobel Peace Prize. (Characteristically, neither author mentions that honor in their one-paragraph biographies on the book's dust-jacket.) It is such a delight to overhear these gentlemen's conversations: their gentle ribbing of each other, each free to laugh at his own expense, their generosity of spirit, their temperate complaints about everything from the infirmities of old age to social atrocities, their agreements, their disagreements, and their obvious love and respect for each other. Yes, there are life-lessons here on everything from anger, despair, illness, and grief, but in 354 pages I never heard an autocratic pronouncement, a false note, or a cliché. Instead, I was listening to two well-worn, wise persons who have something to give me, whether or not I choose to accept it.

    No age is ever settled and altogether happy, but, for me, this book arrived at just the right moment. Instead of despair, here is reason for hope; instead of fury, a reason to laugh; instead of fear, a reason for calm. To paraphrase one of the chapter's titles: by taking a much longer view than our 24/7 world of frenzy permits, we realize "we are fortunate to be alive." Highly recommended.
    13 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 28, 2024
    This is absolutely one of the best books I have ever read. The wisdom and insights given are teachings that everyone in this world needs from our current generation to many generations to come. This book exceeded all expectations.
    One person found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on July 27, 2024
    Through the dialogue and descriptions I felt as though I was present and experienced firsthand the meetings between these two remarkable men. The reading lifted my heart and made me wonder and laugh.
    3 people found this helpful
    Report

Top reviews from other countries

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  • Octavian
    5.0 out of 5 stars Humanity
    Reviewed in Canada on August 29, 2024
    As someone who often goes inward, this book reminds me that my heart longs to care because it’s our human nature. This book brought me to tears quite a few times and I’m not religious. The words and teachings of these two spiritual leaders is more than great. I can’t wait to share this book with others, who I know will love it too.
  • E V
    5.0 out of 5 stars Interesante, entretenido e inspirador. Vale la pena
    Reviewed in Mexico on February 18, 2023
    El libro habla sobre una visita de una semana que hizo el arzobispo Tutú al Dalai Lama. Es una lectura amena, te hace sentir que eres parte de la conversación.
    Hablan sobre temas difíciles, pérdidas y cómo las enfrentan y procesan, después de ver todo lo que han vivido y que sigan teniendo ese nivel de esperanza y seguir inspirando con ejemplo es impresionante.
    Vale la pena, el documental de está entrevista también está en Netflix.
  • Bea Weltenbummlerin
    5.0 out of 5 stars Tolles Buch
    Reviewed in Germany on October 18, 2024
    Klare Kaufempfehlung, die beiden Genies haben so viel Spaß beim Schreiben des Buches gehabt, ich freu mich gleich mit - gute Laune Buch.
  • Dr SAM Ahuja
    5.0 out of 5 stars Really a Book of Joy!!
    Reviewed in India on March 21, 2024
    This book really describes the relationship between two World Leaders!! Both advocate the message of Peace and Harmony!! The teachings are really useful for everyone, despite the race or religion!! Both Teachers are gifted with Wit, and Compassion!! Their teachings are good for peace of mind and soul!!
  • anna
    5.0 out of 5 stars A book that should be in the scholastic syllabus.
    Reviewed in Italy on August 1, 2022
    A must for everyone to read.